Baked Zucchini Fries with Dip
Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
Enjoy these crispy and healthy baked zucchini fries served with a delicious dip. Perfect as a snack or appetizer!
Baked Zucchini Fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries, combining the richness of zucchini with a crispy coating. They are perfect for those looking for a healthier snack option without sacrificing flavor!
Why You'll Love These Baked Zucchini Fries
- Crispy texture that satisfies your fry cravings
- Nutritious and low in calories compared to regular fries
- Versatile dip options to suit every palate
Health Benefits of Zucchini
Zucchini is a wonderful vegetable that is low in calories and high in nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, zucchini contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body, making it a great choice for a healthy diet.
Incorporating zucchini into your meals can also promote digestive health due to its high fiber content. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements and can help you feel fuller longer, making zucchini fries a satisfying snack that won't derail your health goals.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These baked zucchini fries are incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a game night, looking for a healthy snack for movie night, or preparing appetizers for a dinner party, these fries will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
You can customize the dip options to cater to your guests' preferences. From a tangy yogurt dip to a spicy salsa, the combinations are endless, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious zucchini fries.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Fries
To achieve the perfect crispiness, be sure to slice your zucchini into uniform sticks. This ensures even cooking and allows each fry to become golden and crunchy. If your zucchini is particularly watery, consider patting it dry with paper towels before coating to help the breadcrumbs adhere better.
Another tip is to allow enough space between the zucchini fries on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, which can prevent that desired crispy texture. Using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet can also help air circulate around the fries for optimal crispiness.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
For the Dip
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match your dip ingredients to create your favorite flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the zucchinis into fry-shaped sticks and set aside.
Make the Coating
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Zucchini
Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Bake
Place the coated zucchini fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Make the Dip
While the fries are baking, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Serve
Once the fries are done, serve hot with the yogurt dip on the side.
Enjoy your healthy snack!
Pro Tips
- For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
These baked zucchini fries can be served hot out of the oven, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light lunch or enjoy them alongside grilled meats for a hearty dinner. They can even be a tasty side dish for sandwiches and wraps.
For a fun twist, consider adding some spices to the breadcrumb coating, such as cayenne pepper for heat or Italian herbs for a more aromatic flavor profile. This allows you to experiment with different tastes and keep your meals exciting.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the baked zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, it's best to reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
For freezing, place the uncooked coated zucchini fries in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can use eggplant or sweet potatoes for a different flavor!
→ How do I store leftover fries?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the zucchini fries?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked fries. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?
Apart from the yogurt dip, marinara sauce, ranch, or even a spicy aioli would work wonderfully!
Baked Zucchini Fries with Dip
Enjoy these crispy and healthy baked zucchini fries served with a delicious dip. Perfect as a snack or appetizer!
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
For the Dip
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the zucchinis into fry-shaped sticks and set aside.
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Place the coated zucchini fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
While the fries are baking, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Once the fries are done, serve hot with the yogurt dip on the side.
Extra Tips
- For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 6g